NOT FOUND: 1101-january-nsn-final-new_Page_03_Image_0019.jpgFresh. That's all a friend kept saying when asked to describe one of her favorite sushi spots.

There is a trend among sushi eaters...never go by what the sign, the menu, or even website reviews tell you. Always go after hearing word of mouth from a reliable source (preferably a friend or close relative with tastes similar to your own). She was adamant about this one: Sky Sushi in Roseville is "so fresh".

NOT FOUND: 1101-january-nsn-final-new_Page_03_Image_0020.jpgNot just "fresh" in the sense of the fish tasting like it was just pulled out of the ocean. (though one might argue that is hands down the most important use of the word) Not just "fresh" in the sense of their organic decor, highlighting tree trunks and branches throughout the red and black color scheme. "Fresh" like Will Smith might quip on the show of the same name; the Prince of Bel Air himself might have frequented a place just like this. I can almost see him in the din of the pop music and sushi chefs chopping it up like samurais trying to mack to a hottie.

The only hot thing I wanted was enough peppers on my "Slap Me" roll. An unagi, shrimp tempura concoction listed under some of the most requested creations on the menu. Jalapenos and other peppers have made their way into the world of sushi. Call it "Americanized" or in this case "latinized", sushi has become another staple on the U.S. Landscape to suit the varying tastes of an increasingly diverse palate.

The best part is the first bite.

NOT FOUND: 1101-january-nsn-final-new_Page_03_Image_0021.jpgMy "date" has gone enough times to know what's what. So I tasted her order first. The "crazy" roll is a crabmeat, avocado roll compared to a traditional "California roll" but its deep fried in tempura batter and served with eel and cream sauce. Whether it’s the tempura that makes the crab meat takes more like a crab cake or the secret is in the sauce … that first bite was so amazing we had to let it settle on our tongue -- waiting at least a few minutes till partaking of another bite. When I say 'it was like butter', I pray I can evoke the sheer yumminess of this divine taste sensation.

We also had the “shrimp lover” roll and a “kamikaze” and all of the items are served with a small Asian style salad with cabbage and dressing. Perfect to convince us all that somehow the mayonnaise or corn syrup sweetened sauces and rice are all a bit healthier to eat.

As has been the case with most of the restaurants I've happened upon, Sky Sushi had all the rolls half off! It’s not too far, especially if you take the back way just off of Pleasant Grove and Foothills Blvd in a strip mall of mostly chiropractic offices. While it wasn't busy at all when we went, there is word that the lunch and late night crowds are quite hoppin'. Check out the menu online before you go so that you can make an educated choice. Happy dining!